Nipper Woody

Womble and best friend Rodney had a dentist appointment, something Womble really dislikes, like most of us probably do! He has a few diastemas (gaps between teeth) which means he may have to see the dentist more often in future. While he was sedated, he received a little clip too. Clipping off some of the winter coat is a way to allow horses to naturally lose some weight, which is something Womble struggles with.

Woody enjoyed spending the winter with his herd. Despite him being a very happy boy, he is still worried and nervous at times. We have accepted that this is unlikely to change at his age and so his handling training is focused on making necessary procedures as stress-free as possible, such as visits from the farrier, vet and dentist. Woody’s also getting used to life without his companion, Saratoga.

The donkey girls have enjoyed being more snug at the back of the barns during the colder months with regular walks and exercise across the farm. Matilda was a great support for her pal Annabelle when she had some X-rays of her feet. Matilda enjoys her walks with the girls, getting a little excited when she knows it’s time to go! She continues to keep us on our toes!

Pecan and his Shetland friends have welcomed a few new arrivals to their herd; newly castrated Pom Bear caused a bit of disruption at the start but has settled in well along with Tixy. Pecan and his Shetland pals proved just how strong their bond is by standing their ground and accepting the new arrivals over time.

As you may have already read on page 11, Saratoga sadly passed away in early 2023. This heart-breaking decision was made after the pain he was suffering from became unmanageable. We can only be comforted by the fact he had a very happy life, first as a police horse and then in his retirement with us. We know you will miss him just as much we do.

Honour is getting along excellently with her fosterer Jennifer and her field companion, Minnie. She loves to be out in the field first thing to enjoy the morning breeze and a good old roll in the mud. Honour has also started a bit of show-ready practising, trotting up and down having a great time in her field.

Now it’s time for the Sponsorship Stars to enjoy the spring and summer seasons! If you wish to get them an enrichment toy to play with this summer...